Did you know that Pobal prepared a webpage containing guidance on how community and voluntary groups can operate safely during COVID-19? The page has been developed by Pobal working with the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) to give information and guidance on how to best prepare to operate safely based on the current recommendations of the Government of Ireland, the Health & Safety Authority (HSA), the Health Service Executive (HSE) and other representative bodies.
The webpage contains step-by-step guidance on how community and voluntary groups can prepare to manage any risks associated with their activities and premises (if applicable). The webpage has been updated to reflect the continuance of public health measures and can be access at the following link: https://www.pobal.ie/reopeningyourservice/
As you are aware, from the series of Ready and Able Webinars delivered by Kerry Volunteer Centre in collaboration with Carmichael, every organisation will need to create a COVID-19 Policy that will outline their commitment to implementing the response plan and protocol to the national COVID-19 regulations. The COVID-19 Policy must be signed and dated by the most senior person within the organisation / group and circulated to all staff and volunteers. In preparing the policy and putting COVID-19 control measures in place, groups will need to review their occupational health and safety risk assessments and take account of any changes to the work activity that may arise, following implementation of the public health recommendations. Due to the varied nature of community/voluntary activities, it is understandably necessary that each group will need to assess their own needs and risks individually and ensure that their operations are in line with the various levels of measures laid out in the National Framework for living with Covid-19.
The National framework outlines restrictions that will apply to many of the activities and services offered by community/voluntary groups, e.g. indoor and outdoor events, sports facilities, childcare, cultural venues etc. Further details of the levels in the framework can be found here: https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/
The page contains a link to an at-a-glance graphic guide to the levels as well as links to sub-pages concerning the restrictions and advice relevant to each level. These resources can help your member groups identify which restrictions apply to their own particular activities. The webpage is an excellent source of information and a practical resources for the Community and Voluntary Sector on operating safely during COVID-19. The information and resources available on this webpage from Pobal will assist and support staff and volunteers with responsibility for formulating a detailed, bespoke plan for their organisation, community centre or facility.
